Lead Teacher (Grades K-2)

Job Description

Position Title: Lead Teacher (Grades K-2)

About Us: Royal Palm Academy is a joyful, vibrant, independent, and family-oriented Catholic PK-8 school located in beautiful Naples, Florida. Committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth, we partner with families to provide a rich educational experience grounded in Catholic values.

The Opportunity: Join our esteemed faculty for the 2024-2025 school year as a full-time Lead Teacher in Grades K-2. This is a permanent, salaried position offering competitive compensation and benefits. We are seeking passionate educators who are dedicated to fostering academic achievement, character development, and spiritual growth in our students.

Position Overview: As a Lead Teacher at Royal Palm Academy, you will play a vital role in creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment for our students. Through innovative instruction, meaningful curriculum, and a commitment to Catholic values, you will empower students to reach their full potential and become tomorrow's leaders.

Key Responsibilities:
Embrace and uphold the mission, philosophy, and values of Royal Palm Academy.
Cultivate a positive and inclusive classroom culture where students feel valued, supported, and motivated to learn.
Plan and deliver dynamic lessons that align with grade-level curriculum standards and promote critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.
Integrate Catholic teachings and values into daily instruction and classroom activities, fostering spiritual growth and moral development.
Establish clear expectations for behavior and conduct, and implement effective classroom management strategies.
Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning needs and abilities of students, ensuring all learners are challenged and supported.
Utilize technology effectively to enhance teaching and learning experiences, and maintain accurate records of student progress and achievement.
Communicate regularly and collaboratively with parents, colleagues, and school administration to support student success and well-being.
Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching skills and stay current with best practices in education.

Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent certification in Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, or a related field.
Minimum of 2 years of lead teacher classroom experience at the K-2 level, or 5+ years of experience in Catholic or Independent school settings.
Passion for teaching elementary-aged students and dedication to the mission of Catholic education.
Strong classroom management skills and ability to create a supportive and engaging learning environment.
Proficiency with technology, including Microsoft Office and student information systems.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to collaboration and teamwork.

Preferred Qualifications:
Practicing Catholic in good standing and able to teach Catholic theology.
Previous experience teaching in Grades K-5, or experience student teaching.
Experience with Orton-Gillingham (training available but not required).
Florida State teacher certification for K-5 teacher positions (or in progress).

Physical and Other Demands:
Ability to perform various physical tasks, including standing, sitting, and monitoring students in various locations.
Maintain composure and professionalism in a fast-paced and dynamic classroom environment.
Excellent communication skills and ability to interact effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.

To Apply: Submit a Resume/CV in Adobe PDF format to Michael Bussman, Head of School, at mbussman@royalpalmacademy.org. A cover letter or email expressing your interest in the Lead Teacher position at Royal Palm Academy is optional.

About Royal Palm Academy: Royal Palm Academy is an independent, Catholic, pre-kindergarten to eighth-grade school in Naples, Florida. Our mission is to partner with families to provide an education of rich academics with Catholic formation. Through integral formation, we teach the mind, educate the heart, and form the character of tomorrow's leaders. Join us in shaping the future of Catholic education at Royal Palm Academy.

About the Employer

Royal Palm Academy is an independent, Catholic, pre-kindergarten to eighth grade school in Naples, Florida. Our mission is to partner with families to provide an education of rich academics with Catholic formation. Royal Palm Academy teaches the mind, educates the heart, and forms the character of tomorrow's leaders. This mission is pursued through the development of the whole person, integral formation, which encompasses the commitment to teach, to educate, and to form our students.